Learn How to Box in 5 Easy Steps

Boxing is one of America’s favorite classic sports. This competitive, combat sport uses strict rules to determine a winner and has a rich history. Learning hand-to-hand combat skills dates back to prehistoric times, but modern boxing takes a lot more than getting into a ring. Use this quick guide to learn how to box in just 5 easy steps.

Step 1: Know What You Are Getting In To

Before you start taking boxing lessons at the local gym or following a workout video, take the time to read about the history of the sport. This will give you a lot of insight into proper form and the expectations of those participating. You don’t want to jump into your first fight and get disqualified for foul play.

You don’t need to start with reading about ancient Greek history to learn about boxing; start with reading the rules and watching highlights from matches that took place earlier this year. Learn the key differences between professional and amateur boxing. This research will put you in a much better position.

Step 2: Buy the Right Supplies

While you can get a good workout punching things around the home, you will need experience using proper equipment. It is better to invest in the correct equipment early on, as this will allow your body to adjust to using it. Not only will you be able to avoid damage to your body (or home), you will be more comfortable during your first official match.

Here are just a few things you should purchase upfront before training at home:

Mouthguard, Headgear, and Other Protective Equipment

Comfortable Workout Shoes

Training Gloves

Heavy Punching Bag

Sparring Gloves

Choosing the right items is important. If you feel overwhelmed or need guidance, consult a professional or a personal trainer.

Step 3: Workout Daily

Even if you plan on taking professional boxing lessons, you will need to set time aside every day to work out. You’ll need to practice a wide range of punches in addition to getting regular exercise. Try to develop a routine that includes a 10-minute warm up, at least 20 minutes of intense exercise, any training exercises, and a 10-minute cooldown. Some professional boxers spend hours a day training; however, a physically fit beginner may find that one hour per day is enough to help them accomplish their goals.

Step 4: Seek Professional Assistance

Boxing is a lot more than exchanging punches. While you learned a little bit about the sport during your initial research, you will want to enlist a professional to help you learn the basics. Professional boxing instructors can help you learn proper form. They can also help you learn to avoid punches using real examples or demonstrations.

Professional assistance comes in many forms. For most boxers-in-training, this comes in the form of classroom or personal instruction. If there isn’t a professional instructor available, you may turn to instructional videos; however, nothing can beat real-world experience and expertise.

Step 5: Enhance Your Skills

Every fighter has their own unique style. Identifying flaws in your style and working to perfect certain skills will help you tremendously in the ring. Look for problems with speed or control, as these can lead to huge disadvantages during a match. If these problems remain after going over a basic routine for a few months, you will need to ask an instructor for additional assistance.

Aside from practicing the same moves over and over, you will need to get some experience in actual fights. Most classrooms offer regular sparring matches with other students or the instructor. This doesn’t just give you first-hand experience, it helps you further identify potential fighting problems. For example, if your sparring partner is constantly getting hits in, it is a clear indicator that you need to work on your defensive maneuvers and movement speed. If you are constantly missing your target, you likely need to work on your timing or basic technique.

Learning to box is a lot of work. While this guide broke it into 5 steps, be prepared to spend months developing basic techniques and learning the rules. Professional boxing takes dedication and determination, but it is a skill most physically fit individuals can perfect over time.